Sihanoukville, a peaceful seaside resort town with happening nightlife, a favourite backpackers destination of the past has changed a lot. With money from Beijin being invested into huge resorts and casinos, it has now acquired a very Chinese feel. Dragons and pandas, red lanterns, heavy smokers, never sleeping roulette – say hello to the new Sihanoukville.
Pristine beaches, once the main draw of Sihanoukville, are now framed with skyscrapers and the only deep-water port in Cambodia will soon start habitually welcoming cruise ships. Now casinos are the top attraction of the city but they are catering exclusively for foregners – mostly, Chinese.
Last year alone, China invested in Cambodia about USD1.3 billion. Though the Cambodian government definitely treats this investment as a 'win-win', many disagree. They believe that 'Chiinafication' of Cambodia which is now looks irreversible, will eventually do no good. What are your thoughts?
Guess Which City in SEA Is Now Called Macau N2?
News in Asia
A city with a population of 157,000 inhabitants now features about 80 casinos and the number of Chinese tourists visiting this seaside resort destination is almost equal to its population. We are speaking about Sihanoukville – when was the last time you visited it?